About LightSail

A Canadian photonics company building Vela, our laser communication platform for satellites.

Our Story

LightSail is a spinoff from Western University, turning world-class photonics research into commercial products. Vela is our answer to a simple question: how do you send data between satellites with lasers instead of radio? Our chip-scale platform solves the hard problems—enough power for long distances, enough precision to hit a target thousands of kilometers away, and rugged enough for space.

LightSail research lab

Technology Focus

High-Power Optical Systems

Proprietary architectures achieving multi-watt optical power levels, overcoming the fundamental limitations of conventional silicon photonics.

Ultra-Low Power Phase Control

Revolutionary phase control technology enabling 10,000+ element arrays within satellite power budgets while maintaining quantum compatibility.

Grating-Lobe-Free Design

Proprietary architectures achieving effective λ/2 spacing for maximum beam directivity and eliminated sidelobes.

Space Qualification

Comprehensive radiation testing programs and on-orbit validation partnerships to ensure space-ready products.

Partnerships

We work closely with industry leaders and maintain strong ties to the research community.

Key Partners

Western University
Canadian Space Agency
Wyvern Space

Target Funding Programs

  • DND IDEaS Program
  • CSA Space Technology Development Program
  • NSERC Alliance Grants
  • Canada-ESA Cooperation

Interested in Collaboration?

We welcome discussions with potential industry partners, research collaborators, and funding organizations interested in advancing optical satellite communication technology.

Get in Touch